Several years ago, Gitta Frazer was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease. Parkinson's is a progressive disorder of the central nervous system that may lead to tremors, rigidity, slowness of movement, gait disorder and a loss of balance. It may also cause memory loss, depression, swallowing and speech difficulties and other problems.

Although presently there is no cure for Parkinson's, modern treatments and therapies can help people with Parkinson's lead an active life. The specialized inter-professional team at North York General Hospital Parkinson's Clinic provides a practical education and exercise program for patients with Parkinson's in that community.

As a way of honouring her on the occasion of her 70th birthday, Gitta's family and friends are organizing Gitta's Race, a one-time event in support of North York General Hospital's Parkinson's Program at the Seniors' Health Centre.

Gitta's Race will take place on May 4th. Participants can either do a casual 5 km run or take a leisurely 500m walk. Please join us if you can. The race will begin and end at 56 Magpie Crescent near Leslie and Highway 401. Registration begins at 10:30 a.m., and the race begins at 11:00 a.m. A light lunch will be served and there will also be a prize draw for all participants.

Please email mfrazer@torys.com if you want to run or walk with us on May 4th and whether you will be bringing by any guests.

Most importantly, whether you can make it or not, please help us reach (and hopefully exceed) our fundraising target by clicking on the DONATE NOW button below. All proceeds from Gitta's Race will be used to refurbish the exercise room at NYGH's Parkinson's Clinic and help fund an endowment to support other programs at the Clinic.